Interview for IM

[jc0331]

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Not sure if this is the right place for my post or not, if it isn't I apologize in advance. I just have some general questions about dress code for an upcoming interview I have. First a little bg on me, I am an US citizen FMG, graduated in 2013 from Mexico and have since attempted applying 3x to residency however my first 2 I was lacking a few important components in my application that I suppose just made it weaker over all. This is my first year applying with all credentials, including ECFMG cert and even some light research exp. I got my first interview coming up as I mentioned and well I am starting to panic a little. I'm doing some mock interviews with an ophthalmologist I work with and my supervisor at my job to sort of prep me. Anyway, a few questions:

1. Am I really setting myself up for failure with a black suit that I have or am I over thinking it? How about a watch, is that mandatory? My current setup is a black suit with a light blue button up and red tie; matching black shoes/belt. I really don't know much about business wear and I don't typically wear watches.
2. Is khakis and a polo okay for the informal pre-interview dinner w/the residents okay?

Any tips/advice is welcome. Thanks!

 

[NotAProgDirector]

Yes, you are overthinking it. A suit is fine. Watch doesn't matter. As long as it looks OK, you're fine.

The pre interview dinner is usually much more casual. You can ask the PC if you'd like -- they should be happy to tell you. You can't go wrong with "business casual" -- professional looking pants, with a shirt, no tie. But a nice polo and khaki's should be fine also.

 

[cbrons]

Maybe consider some mock interviews with one of those companies that offer them for IMGs? As a 3rd time applicant, you really want to identify and be prepared to answer questions.

Sent from my SM-N910P using SDN mobile

 

[wc0921]

I agree with the above. Suit +/- watch sounds good. Slacks with a button up shirt and the top button open is safe for dinner. Make sure you spend serious time on SDN and other resources looking at typical questions asked on the interview trail. Common questions include:
1. Why here? Have a good reason why you want to be there. Whether it is geography, reputation, ongoing research matches with your interests, etc. This is also where you heavily research the program
2. Why medicine? Have an interesting story as to why you want to go to medicine (grew up knowing a hospitalist/internist, shadowed one and loved it, etc)
3. Tell me about "X" on your CV. Know everything cold i.e research publications, experiences, etc
4. What are some strengths/weaknesses. if you get a weakness question, turn it into a strength (I did not do well in a class first year, however met with a tutor or study group, improved my studying and did much better). This will show you can overcome problems
5. Tell me about this bad grade, rotation comment, etc. Same thing. Tell them what you did to fix it and get better from it. That carries a lot of weight if you can analyze yourself and make improvements
6. What can you bring to our program?
7. What is your 5/10 year plan? Make this line up with their program. You want to stay local, teach if they are a big teaching institution, etc
8. What is the most interesting case you have seen? Think about this and read about it to sound informed
9. A few others that you will find all over SDN and the internet
Think about answers to these and practice in front of physicians/attendings, etc that can provide constructive criticism
Keep in mind you got the interview. They think you have what it takes. This is just to determine if you are someone that can bring something to their program and that they can work with for the next 3 years